What Is the Thai Forest Tradition? | Ajahn Sumedho

"The Thai forest tradition was rooted in simplicity—a life of rag robes, alms bowls, and meditation in the wilderness," Ajahn Sumedho explains as he reflects on his journey into this ancient practice. In this video, he describes the unique character of the Thai forest monks, their emphasis on meditation over study, and the transformative teachings of Ajahn Chah. He shares his admiration for the tradition’s ability to preserve the essence of the Buddha’s original teachings, even as Thailand has modernized.
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00:00 Introduction to the Thai Forest Tradition
00:28 Early Thailand and Buddhist Traditions
01:14 The Emphasis on Vinaya and Meditation
02:00 The Impact of Modernization on Forest Monasteries
03:00 Ajahn Chah’s Approach to Meditation
04:10 Luang Por Mun’s Influence
05:20 Symbolism of Forest Monks’ Robes
06:10 Meditation’s Rising Popularity in Thailand
06:25 The Simple Life of a Forest Monk
07:00 Wandering Practices of the Forest Tradition
08:14 Adapting the Forest Tradition to England